Mexican CG, Alicia Buenrostro-Massieu appointed Ambassador to Austria

A tequila toast will be in order to bid farewell to Mexico’s dynamic Consul General, Alicia Buenrostro-Massieu. She has been appointed Ambassador to Austria, pending approval by the Mexican Senate. The announcement was made on the government website gob.mx (see here) and the Consulate has no comment pending the approval process.

A vibrant community has supported her ambitious agenda of events to build trade connections with Mexico and introduce Mexican culture to a broader swathe of the Hong Kong population, both among the elites and with the broader population. Her popularity in the Mexican, diplomatic and broader Hong Kong community is a testament to her energy, commitment and charm in promoting the Mexican mission.

Ms Buenrostro-Massieu’s sharp rise has taken in London, Madrid and Washington en route to Hong Kong and now, an ambassadorial post. She spoke this week about her experience as a diplomat on Women’s International Day at Bright Hong Kong, charting out the highs and lows faced by female diplomats. The loneliness many hard driving, fast rising diplomats women diplomats experience may see them make sacrifices in the area of family and children. One reason Hong Kong will always be dear to her heart was that she met her future – now current – husband here in Hong Kong – a rarity among diplomats in this hard charging city.

Not America’s Mexico. Mexico’s Mexico.

Much of the cultural exposure has defied stereotypes perpetuated by American media. The Consul General moved into expansive new premises during her tenure, reflecting Mexico’s growing economic stature and commitment to Hong Kong, China and the region. The space includes an event-friendly art gallery reception that has been a whirlwind of events that have showed crowds a different side of Mexico.

Ms Buenrostro-Massieu sharing her thoughts with Bright Hong Kong for International Women’s Day.

Mireya Garcia, founder and Creative Director of Maya Events, has collaborated with the Consulate on many occasions. “Alicia always brought a deep thoughtfulness to ensure that events were not only a fantastically good time – they always are! – but was mindful of achieving Mexico’s goals in building reputation and connections to help the Mexican people,” explains Ms Garcia.

Viva Mexican business

On business and trade, One of the big announcements in recent years was the launch of Cathay Pacific’s cargo flights to Guadalajara, a whopping success according to Mexico.

German Munoz-Dias says, ¨Today and thanks to her efforts, robust and growing economic ties are making a better life for the people of our two countries. Without her talent and dedication, The Mexican Chamber of Commerce would not have arrived where it is today: a valued member of the international business community in Hong Kong.¨The Chamber has been accepted to the IBC, the quarterly meeting group between Hong Kong’s leading international Chambers (and the HKGCC) and the HKSAR administration.

Andrew Work is the CEO of New Work Media, publisher of Harbour Times.He has run The Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, founded The Lion Rock Institute and has over 25 years engagement in media, politics, policy and community engagement.